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Discover how to capture images that surprise and captivate in this 4-session photography course, perfect for any skill level. Using a smartphone equipped with a camera and editing applications participants have, we will learn to see the world through a fresh lens, mastering unconventional angles, unique lighting, and creative storytelling techniques. This course blends hands-on practice with insightful guidance on breaking photography norms to create striking, one-of-a-kind photos. A highlight of this course will be the introduction of AI cameras and editing applications which will be both demonstrated and discussed as to the moral and ethical use of such tools and techniques. In addition, each session features in-class assignments to help develop an eye for the unexpected and encourage everyone to experiment with creative techniques.

PLEASE NOTE: The facilitator will be utilizing and demonstrating from an Android-based smartphone device however techniques and skills may transfer over to almost any smartphone while older smartphone models may be limited in some shooting and editing capabilities.

Required: Individual smartphone with camera and editing capabilities.  Recommended: Ability to purchase apps if desired

Explore and learn about the history and development of classical music, from small ensembles to the symphony orchestra, with a Colorado Symphony musician educator. Discover, explore, and compare the music-making techniques of master composers from every major era, including women composers and composers of color. We will listen to, discuss, and make observations about different instruments and compositions. This class will enhance the understanding and appreciation of classical music. OLLI students will learn the basic history of classical music, listen to and compare/contrast examples of music from all major historical periods, and learn about composers from each of those periods. Whether you’re a novice or a classical music aficionado, get ready to expand your knowledge and experience all sorts of new cool info from a professional musician and educator!

This course centers on the book of the same name by Heather Cox Richardson and examines the political, cultural, and social forces that shaped the evolution of democracy in America, as well as the pressures currently trying to push democracy in a different direction. Democracy is a process always at risk. We will explore the disparate forces that drive the ebb and flow of American politics and the power-seeking bad actors always attempting to derail the process. Beginning with discussions of the historical events trying to undermine democracy, such as Nixon’s Southern Strategy, we then turn to recent threats such as January 6 and the Big Lie. The class concludes by examining how we might reclaim our democracy from forces pulling in different directions such as Project 2025.

Class members are expected to read the book, examine their own concepts of democracy, and participate in thoughtful and lively discussions.

Required: DEMOCRACY AWAKENING: Notes on the State of America, by Heather Cox Richardson

Class does not meet on January 20th

Grant was suave, debonaire, athletic, and charming. What other words could be used to describe Cary Grant? Our second course on this Academy Award-nominated actor (won a lifetime achievement Oscar but not a movie Oscar) will take a look at eight more of his light-hearted comedies covering his four-decade movie career. These pictures are frequently cited among the greatest comedy films of all time. This time Cary Grant will have run-ins with gamblers. newspaper reporters, a Supreme Court nominee, housebuilders, a war bride, college professors (again), a pink submarine, and a famous actress. As one of the first actors to forego the studio system and strike out as a ‘free agent’ in the mid-1940s he was able to pick and choose his roles (although he did not win every role he wanted). We will see how being a ‘free agent’ helped him obtain so many excellent roles.

There is no single definition of what poetry is. We believe that music (with lyrics) is poetry, presented in a music template. The intermingling of words and melody has historic potency and has been going on for centuries.

The main title of this course is Music is Poetry and this premise will be shown, in this reduced course, by exploring the songs of four singer-songwriters. During the course, we will examine what poetry is and explore the use of poetic devices in poems and songs. These four artists were among the best of the Twentieth Century at writing both songs and lyrics. Make no mistake, there will be lots of music, via audio or video presentation!

We will adventure through Harari’s history of information networks from the Stone Age to AI as we read his latest book Nexus, published in September 2024. The class will engage in discussions about Harari’s positions on the role that information plays in democracy, decisions, and our myths. We will look at the difference AI brings to our information possibilities. We will discuss some of Harari’s suggestions for regulating and partnering with an intelligence that will be superior to our own. This class should open our eyes to possibilities for choices we need to make to survive and thrive in the 21st century.

Required Reading:  Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI (September 2024)

Join us for a dynamic 4-week course designed for older adults eager to explore the connection between lifelong learning, integrative health practices, and successful aging. Using cutting-edge research with AI and machine learning, we’ll uncover key factors that drive physical, cognitive, and emotional wellness in older adults. You’ll learn how community-based programs and daily activities, such as mindfulness and physical activity, promote whole person health and successful aging. The course offers practical tools to help reduce fatigue, anxiety, and depression, empowering you to live a healthier, more vibrant life. Perfect for those seeking to improve their well-being through lifelong learning and integrative health practices.

Recommended: The Roadmap to 100: The Breakthrough Science of Living a Long and Healthy Life by Walter M.Bortz II MD (Author), Randall Stickrod (Author) New and used books available through Amazon.com, and the Tattered Cover bookstore.

After the Civil War, America faced the immense challenge of healing and rebuilding. Although formerly enslaved people gained freedom, their quest for justice and equal rights was met with fierce opposition from white supremacists and violent groups like the Ku Klux Klan. Today, leaders like Reverend William Barber and Henry Louis Gates Jr. argue that we are in a new Reconstruction Era. Join facilitator Jim Edelman to explore how these critical historical lessons can inspire us to strengthen democracy and advance true freedom for all. During Reconstruction, approximately 2,000 African Americans served in political offices across the South, including hundreds of state legislators, fourteen Congressmen, and two Senators. White supremacists resolved to defeat Reconstruction by any means necessary including voter suppression, falsely disputing election results, and massacres sanctioned by local law enforcement. As the courts undermined enabling legislation, southerners violently rolled back most of what had been accomplished. The Ku Klux Klan and aligned organizations were the instruments of much of this violence. Sound familiar? Reverand William Barber, Henry Louis Gates Junior, and others argue that we are in a new Reconstruction Era. Perhaps we can find ways from this history of inspiration and tragedy to strengthen our democracy and better pursue freedom for all.

Recommended:  Eric Foner, Forever Free Eric Foner, The Second Founding, WEB Du Bois Black Reconstruction in America

Exclusive Broomfield Offer: Enjoy $10 off your registration for this class!

This section is for Non-members

After the Civil War, America faced the immense challenge of healing and rebuilding. Although formerly enslaved people gained freedom, their quest for justice and equal rights was met with fierce opposition from white supremacists and violent groups like the Ku Klux Klan. Today, leaders like Reverend William Barber and Henry Louis Gates Jr. argue that we are in a new Reconstruction Era. Join facilitator Jim Edelman to explore how these critical historical lessons can inspire us to strengthen democracy and advance true freedom for all. During Reconstruction, approximately 2,000 African Americans served in political offices across the South, including hundreds of state legislators, fourteen Congressmen, and two Senators. White supremacists resolved to defeat Reconstruction by any means necessary including voter suppression, falsely disputing election results, and massacres sanctioned by local law enforcement. As the courts undermined enabling legislation, southerners violently rolled back most of what had been accomplished. The Ku Klux Klan and aligned organizations were the instruments of much of this violence. Sound familiar? Reverand William Barber, Henry Louis Gates Junior, and others argue that we are in a new Reconstruction Era. Perhaps we can find ways from this history of inspiration and tragedy to strengthen our democracy and better pursue freedom for all.

Recommended:  Eric Foner, Forever Free Eric Foner, The Second Founding, WEB Du Bois Black Reconstruction in America

Exclusive Broomfield Offer: Enjoy $10 off your registration for this class!

This section is for Members

Discover the beauty of watercolor painting by mastering its core techniques! This course is designed for beginners and those looking to strengthen their foundational skills in this expressive medium. We will explore a range of essential techniques, such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, washes, gradients, and color blending. Through guided exercises, you’ll learn how to control the flow of water and pigment to create stunning effects and textures. Each session will cover practical applications, including brushwork, color mixing, and composition tips, helping to build confidence and a solid understanding of watercolor fundamentals. Whether you’re new to watercolor or seeking to refine skills, this course will equip you with the tools to start painting with ease and creativity.

Required: Supply List will be provided in advance to all participants. But here are basics supplies like 100% cotton 140lb Paper, Brushes round fine tip #2, #6, #10 or #12, watercolors, Paper Towels, Pencil, Eraser, Sharpener, Ruler.